Michael Hawley

6/28/20: I was shocked to read of the death on June 24 of Michael Hawley, only 58 years old.

NY Times, NPR, MIT

I am just one of many people touched by Mike’s combination of genius, and down-to-earth outgoing friendliness. In the 80’s, I made a commercial recording using the brand new Bösendorfer 290SE recording piano with the help of John Amuedo at MIT’s Media Lab. Some time in the 90’s, it seemed that Mike took over from John, and from time to time, I would visit Mike at the Media Lab to discuss technologies related to pianos. I will always remember him on the floor under the Bosendorfer fixing and adjusting and swearing constantly and then sitting down to test his work by tossing off some very difficult piano piece (He was a very good pianist.) Over the years, Mike and I had only occasional interactions, but I considered him a friend. He was super friendly and helpful in my musical and technological pursuits, and always made me feel a part of the spirit of fun, thoughtful and brilliant innovations at the Media Lab. I will miss him very much, but will try to embody his rugged life-affirming qualities.